Elijah Roberts, once part of the Miami Hurricanes football team, is now carving out his future as an NFL prospect after transferring to SMU. The promising defensive lineman has significantly improved his game during his time at SMU, making him one of the players to watch as the NFL draft approaches.
Roberts, who played 20 games and participated in 298 defensive snaps during his three seasons at Miami, managed to record 21 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and half a sack. Despite his solid stats, he felt underutilized at Miami. Seeking more opportunities to showcase his abilities, he made the pivotal decision to transfer to SMU where head coach Rhett Lashlee and the coaching staff quickly recognized his potential.
“It kind of gets a little nerve-wracking just in this whole process, the uncertainty of it,” Roberts stated as he looks toward the future. The uncertainty has marked the transition from college ball to professional aspirations, but it’s also fueled his drive. Since moving to the Mustangs, he has been impressive, finishing the 2023 season with 37 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks, earning All-AAC second-team honors. He didn’t slow down after SMU joined the ACC, as he contributed 35 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks, which secured him All-ACC honorable mention recognition.
“Just more opportunity at SMU, and honestly, it was more of a confidence booster,” he reflected on the differences between his time at Miami and SMU. Roberts attributes his success at SMU to the environment created by the coaching staff, who instilled confidence and trust. “They kind of put a lot of confidence in me and let me know from Day 1 like, ‘Listen, man, you’re going to be the guy. We need you to make plays.'”
Having now transitioned successfully to SMU, Roberts is preparing for the upcoming NFL draft, addressing the physical demands of his position and enhancing his skills for rookie minicamp. Recently, he participated in drills at the NFL scouting combine held on February 27, 2025, where athletes showcase their skills to NFL coaches and scouts. His performance throughout the season and at the combine has placed him firmly on the radar of several NFL teams.
The 2025 NFL draft is approaching, and Roberts has already begun conversations with teams, including the Tennessee Titans, and anticipates meeting with other franchises as well. “Whatever team gets me, they’re going to get a good player,” he asserted confidently. After overcoming the challenges he faced earlier at Miami, Roberts’ hard work and resilience are apparent, making him one of the notable prospects as the NFL season approaches.
Roberts’ story is not just about his skills as a player; it extends to his personal growth and the support from his peers. A significant aspect of his transition included fellow teammates from Miami who also made their way to SMU, creating camaraderie among them. “It was really funny because everyone was making the jump, and it felt more like home. The ties from the University of Miami made it easier,” Roberts explained.
Reflecting on his past, Roberts emphasizes the importance of the opportunities he got with the Mustangs, now feeling ready for professional football after honing his craft at SMU. His path exemplifies the journeys many athletes take as they look for the right fit where they can thrive and make the most of their abilities on the field.
Now, as the NFL draft looms, his focus is on showcasing his potential. With the confidence gained at SMU, he is prepared, eager, and hopeful for what’s next. All signs point to this Dallas native being ready to make an impact at the next level, fulfilling his dream of playing professional football.